CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hair Straightener Flat vs MELYDO Mini Flat Iron, Ceramic Tourmaline Small
Updated August 2026 — CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hair Straightener Flat wins on versatility and performance, MELYDO Mini Flat Iron, Ceramic Tourmaline Small wins on price and portability.
The CHI Original offers superior performance and versatility, making it the better choice for serious styling needs, while the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron is a budget-friendly option for travel and short hair.
Why CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hair Straightener Flat is better
Performance
CHI delivers salon-quality results.
Versatility
CHI can style various hair types.
Heating Technology
CHI's advanced ceramic technology ensures even heat.
Why MELYDO Mini Flat Iron, Ceramic Tourmaline Small is better
Price
MELYDO is significantly cheaper.
Portability
MELYDO is compact and travel-friendly.
Weight
MELYDO is lighter and easier to carry.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hair Straightener Flat | MELYDO Mini Flat Iron, Ceramic Tourmaline Small |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 392°F | 410°F |
| Plate Type | Ceramic | Ceramic Tourmaline |
| Voltage | Not specified | 100V-240V |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs | 0.5 lbs |
| Sales Rank | 3276 | 8758 |
Dimension comparison
Introduction to Hair Straighteners
When it comes to styling tools, hair straighteners are essential for achieving sleek, polished looks. In this comparison, we will examine two popular hair straighteners: the CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hair Straightener and the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron. Both products offer unique features that cater to different styling needs and budgets. The CHI, priced at $49.88, is a professional-grade tool with advanced technology, while the MELYDO, at just $9.99, is a compact option ideal for travel.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of a hair straightener can significantly impact its usability. The CHI Original features a sleek ergonomic design that incorporates 1" ceramic floating plates. These plates allow for effortless gliding through hair, promoting a smooth finish. The CHI's construction is aimed at providing salon-quality results, which is evident in its higher price point and better sales rank of 3,276.
On the other hand, the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron is designed for portability, making it suitable for travel. It boasts a compact size and a lightweight build, easily fitting into bags and suitcases. Its ceramic tourmaline plates are designed to evenly distribute heat, but its smaller size may limit its effectiveness on thicker hair. While both tools are well-built, they cater to different user needs—one for professional styling and the other for convenience.
Heating Technology
The heating technology used in a hair straightener plays a crucial role in its performance. The CHI Original heats up to a set temperature of 392°F, utilizing advanced ceramic technology that ensures even heat distribution across the plates. This feature is particularly beneficial for achieving consistent results while minimizing hair damage.
Conversely, the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron heats up to a slightly higher temperature of 410°F. While this may seem advantageous, the compact design is specifically tailored for styling short hair and bangs, which may not require such high heat. Both straighteners offer effective heating, but the CHI's technology is designed for a broader range of hair types, making it more versatile.
Versatility in Styling
Versatility is key when choosing a hair straightener, and both products offer different styling capabilities. The CHI Original is marketed as a versatile tool, allowing users to straighten, flip, curl, or style their hair in various ways. Its floating plates facilitate easy movement, making it suitable for multiple styling techniques.
The MELYDO Mini Flat Iron, while compact, also claims to be a multipurpose tool capable of straightening and creating curls. However, its smaller size limits its effectiveness to shorter hair types and bangs. Therefore, while both tools offer versatility, the CHI Original provides a wider array of styling options, making it a better choice for those who want to experiment with different looks.
Portability and Travel Use
For those who travel frequently, portability is a major consideration when selecting a hair straightener. The MELYDO Mini Flat Iron excels in this area, featuring dual voltage capabilities (100V-240V) that allow it to adapt to various power outlets around the world. Its compact design and included heat-resistant bag make it an excellent choice for travelers.
In contrast, the CHI Original is larger and not specifically designed for travel. While it delivers exceptional performance, its size and weight make it less convenient for on-the-go styling. If portability is your top priority, the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron is undoubtedly the better option.
Price Comparison
Price can be a decisive factor when choosing between two products. The CHI Original is priced at $49.88, which reflects its professional-grade features and performance. In contrast, the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron offers an incredibly low price of just $9.99, making it about 80% cheaper than the CHI. This significant price difference makes the MELYDO an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those looking for a basic hair straightener for occasional use.
However, the disparity in price also reflects the differences in quality and functionality. While the MELYDO is economical, the CHI is designed for more serious styling needs and delivers superior results.
User Experience and Performance
User experience and performance are critical aspects of any styling tool. The CHI Original is celebrated for its salon-quality results, thanks to its advanced ceramic technology and consistent heating. Users often report smoother, shinier hair with fewer frizz issues, which can be attributed to the flat iron's design and temperature control.
The MELYDO Mini Flat Iron, while effective for its size, may not deliver the same level of performance on thicker or longer hair. Its design is more suited for quick touch-ups or styling shorter hair types. Thus, while both provide satisfactory performance, the CHI Original is more likely to meet the expectations of users seeking professional results.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the decision between the CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hair Straightener and the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron boils down to individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a high-quality, versatile tool capable of delivering salon-like results, the CHI Original is worth the investment at $49.88. However, if you're in need of a travel-friendly, budget option primarily for short hair or quick fixes, the MELYDO Mini Flat Iron at $9.99 is an excellent choice. Evaluate your styling requirements to determine which product aligns best with your hair care goals.

